Tom There are so many things to do and attractions in Gyeongju! Top travel experiences here includes the iconic Cheomseongdae Observatory as well as a stroll along the scenic Bomunho Lake in Gyeongju. In this post, we’ll show you the top attractions in Gyeongju, food to eat, restaurants to visit as well as some top hotels in Gyeongju City!
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Things to do in Gyeongju – Cheomseongdae Observatory
Cheomseongdae is probably one of the biggest attraction in Gyeongju. Visitors come from all around the world to see this oldest observatory in Asia and marvel at its unique structure. Built in the 7th century during the Shilla dynasty, this observatory is also an attraction because of its beautiful curvatures and iconic outlines. Nearby, you’ll also be able to see tombs of ancient kings that reminded us of the chocolate hills of Bohol. During spring time, you’ll find a field of flowers in full bloom next to Cheomseongdae as well!
Things to do in Gyeongju – Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
Donggung Palace is famous as a “leisure palace” for the crown prince as well as the artificial pond (Wolji Pond) that it contains. It is said that Donggung Palace was where the crown prince would head to for retreats and take leisurely boat rides around the pond. Today, this Gyeongju attraction offers visitors a beautiful spot to take photos and also an enjoyable stroll around the perimeter of its premise.
Things to do in Gyeongju – Bulguksa Temple
Built in the 5th century, Bulguksa Temple was designated as a world cultural asset by UNESCO in 1995. The temple is known for its architectural beauty use of stone relics around its premise. However, we did not really enjoy the visit because of the sheer number of people who visited. There’s a constant jam to park at the lots closer to the premise and if you park at the lower carparks, the climb up will require some time. Nonetheless, if you have spare time in Gyeongju, it is still worth a visit.
Gyeongju Attractions – Bomunho Lake Gyeongju
Probably one of our favourite attraction in Gyeongju – Bomunho Lake. Here, you’ll be able to find the best hotels in Gyeongju such as Hilton Gyeongju and Hotel Hyundai Gyeongju. Not only is the stroll around the lake scenic, you can also take a ride on the swan boats on the lake itself. The best part of the Bomunho lake? The breath-taking sunsets! Definitely not to be missed!
Gyeongju Attractions – Namsan Mountain
Namsan Mountain is also known as the “open-air” museum of Gyeongju. This is because during the Shilla dynasty, there were many little temples, shrines and pagodas that were built all around the mountain. During your ascent, you’ll be able to check out these little pieces of history. However, if you’re heading all the way up, do remember to set aside an entire day because the climb can take a while. Bring loads of water!
Book with Agoda Here: Popular Hotels in Gyeongju
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Gyeongju Attractions – Tong Il Jeon Palace
Tong Il Jeon Palace was where young shilla warriors trained. In 1977, to signify the unification of the Shilla states in 668, the Tong Il Jeon Palace was built. As it started to pour, we were not able to alight to check out the area. If you have visited Tong Il Jeon Palace, tell us more in the comments section below!
What to eat in Gyeongju – Traditional Shilla Lunch
A visit to Gyeongju is not complete unless you’ve tried a traditional Shilla meal (also known as Hongsi Hanjungsik). That is, a meal with LOADS of small dishes sprinkled across the table, accompanied by copious amounts of fresh leafy vegetables! This time our traditional Shilla meal (Hanjungsik) includes beef short ribs, octopus, mackerel and even crabs! There are other buffet options as well. But trust us, this restaurant close to Cheomseongdae Observatory is more than enough to fill any hunger pangs.
Where to eat in Gyeongju – Cafe Eden
Gyeongju is not only great for natural attractions, it is also a perfect city for cafe hopping. Remember Bomunho lake where we enjoyed a stroll and views across the lake? Cafe Eden offers that from its outdoor balcony on the 2nd level. Their pastries and cakes are DELECTABLE as well! Drinks are expensive though. We recommend having a drink to share and go heavy on the pastries and cakes!
Where to eat in Gyeongju – Coffee Bellus Gyeongju
Another venue we enjoyed cafe hopping was Coffee Bellus. Perched atop a hill, Coffee Bellus offers unblocked views over Bomunho lake. A perfect spot to chill, take in the sights and taking time to soak it all in. Moreover, you’ll find cute little decorations around the cafe that gives off the feel of cafes in Paris and London.
What to eat in Gyeongju – Choi Yeonghwa Gyeongju Bread
The other “must-try” food in Gyeongju has got to be the Gyeongju Bread. Choi Yeonghwa Gyeongju Bread Shop is where you want to head to for the authentic taste. If you see a queue (see above) outside the shop, you’re probably at the right place. When we visited, there was a light drizzle but that did not dampen the mood (nor the taste buds) of visitors from both local and overseas visitors. We love the bread, especially when its fresh off the oven with its generous servings of red bean paste wrapped in a light, tasty pastry.
What to eat in Gyeongju – Korean Beef Hanwoo BBQ
Just at the junction of Expo and Bomun road, you’ll find this restaurant that sits by itself, offering Korean Hanwoo. When we went in, we were surprised that it is actually a butchery that allows you to also BBQ on the spot. First, we had to purchase our cut of meats (about 60,000krw worth for 2 people) from the butchery and then proceed to find a seat before ordering the sides, rice and drinks to accompany the BBQ meat. The sides (at 5,000krw per person) is refillable and that got us real full by the end of the meal. A thoroughly enjoyable experience!
Where to stay in Gyeongju
If you’re visiting Gyeongju, our top recommendations would be Hilton Gyeongju and Hotel Hyundai Gyeongju. Check out these amazing photos!
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Book with Agoda Here: Popular Hotels in Gyeongju
Book Here with Klook: Popular Activities in Gyeongju
We hope you have enjoyed our coverage of the Top Things to do, Attractions and Travel Experiences in Gyeongju! Let us know your thoughts in our comments section below! We’ll now leave you with this video coverage of the top things to do and attractions in Gyeongju!
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